Senate – Parrot Mouth Blog

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Labels Nigerian Senate a “Cult,” Accuses Akpabio of Harassment

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central labelled the Nigerian Senate a “cult,” where legislators are afraid to speak out in opposition for fear of being assaulted. In a BBC interview, Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of only four women members of the 109-member Senate, claimed victimization following suspension on March 6 for “gross misconduct.” She was suspended following a seating arrangement dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. “I am being victimized. My suspension is a means of silencing me,” she told BBC reporter Yemisi Adegoke. The senator also accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her, recalling an incident at his country home when he allegedly made suggestive overtures towards her in front of her husband. “He took my hand and squeezed it in a very suggestive way. We women, we know what it means when a man does that,” she said. She also recalled another incident in the Senate chamber when she had forgotten to put on her wedding ring. “He said, ‘Oh Natasha, you are not wearing your ring. Is this an invitation to treat?’ There were about five senators there,” she revealed. Against her claims, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, the Senate’s Deputy Chief Whip, soundly rejected the claims, stating categorically that Akpabio never made any improper advances on Akpoti-Uduaghan—neither in his home nor in the Senate chamber. He also refuted that the Senate was trying to silence her. “Senator Natasha’s legislative activities attest to this fact being false,” Nwaebonyi told the BBC. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more 2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag of Milestones, Setbacks, and Electoral Integrity Challenges The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Nigeria as it celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. The electoral Read more ‍Kano State Opposes Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Calls for Focus on Poverty and Insecurity ‍The Kano State government has rejected the proposed tax reform bills by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “ill-timed, Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Senate Shuts Down Suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Was Linked to Sexual Harassment Claims

The Nigerian Senate has outrightly turned down suggestions that the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was motivated by sexual harassment claims. No, the Senate responded, insisting that the action was solely about her “gross misconduct” and continuous violation of parliamentary status. In plain language, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele brushed aside what he referred to as “deliberate misinformation and false reports” being circulated by some media outlets. “Let it be clearly stated that Senator Uduaghan was suspended for her continued acts of misconduct, flagrant violation of the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended), and gross indiscipline nothing more, nothing less,” Bamidele declared. The Senate in unequivocal terms stated that she was suspended due to the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges reports, which had among various offences: Refusal to occupy her allocated seat in plenary. Speaking to the house without being invited to order by the presiding officer. Conduct that had been described as unruly and disorderly. Issuance of insulting words against Senate leadership. Disobedience of summons by the Ethics and Privileges Committee. The Senate charged that her behavior was a “direct challenge to the Authority of the Senate” and called for discipline in the name of order. Citing reports that indicated that her suspension had something to do with a petition that she had presented, the Senate clarified that the petition had been excluded on a procedural basis and was not the reason for her suspension. “Contrary to the spurious reports circulating, Senator Uduaghan was NOT suspended for sexual harassment allegation or for the filing of a petition,” Bamidele asserted. The Senate further decried what it described as “irresponsible and unethical reporting” by media outfits said to sensationalize facts. It blamed the media outlets for embarking on a “coordinated campaign of misinformation” as a way to politicize the action in question. “This campaign of disinformation is seeking to blindfold the public, but facts are self-explanatory her suspension is purely on the basis of blatant violations of Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended),” the statement read. The Senate welcomed foreign journalists, and ethical media to visit and put things in their proper perspective and refrain from disseminating falsehoods that undermine the legitimacy of the legislative process. It reaffirmed its strong commitment to ensuring discipline, order, and parliamentary ethics, reaffirming no senator, regardless of his or her position, sex, or political party, is above the Senate rules. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more Nigerian Equities Market Defies Economic Challenges, Posts Record N21.8 Trillion Gain in 2024 ‏The Nigerian equities market demonstrated exceptional resilience in 2024, achieving a remarkable gain of N21.845 trillion despite economic headwinds such Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Senate Urges Urgent Security Deployment to Benue After Deadly Attack

LEADERSHIP NEWS reported that the Senate has called on the federal government to deploy security forces urgently to Gwer-West Local Government Area of Benue State following a violent attack by armed assailants on March 10, 2025. The motion, sponsored by Senator Titus Zam Tartenger (Benue North-West), was raised in response to the invasion of Gyaruwa community by suspected bandits masquerading as herders, which resulted in the killing of four people. In the aftermath, angry youths staged violent protests, decrying the government’s failure to protect them. The unrest escalated, leading to the burning of the Gwer-West Local Government Secretariat, the palace of the paramount ruler, Senator Zam’s private residence, and the homes of other prominent figures. Expressing deep concern over the worsening security situation, Senator Zam recalled his past efforts, including the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Bill, which remains stalled at the public hearing stage. He criticized the weak enforcement of Benue State’s anti-open grazing law, arguing that this has left residents vulnerable to attacks while exposing federal lawmakers from the state to undue pressure. The Senate warned that continued violence in Gyaruwa and surrounding communities could have devastating consequences for food security, as Benue is a major agricultural hub. Disruptions to farming activities could impact food production and livelihoods across the country. Following deliberations, the Senate resolved to: Observe a minute of silence for those killed. Urge security agencies to swiftly restore law and order in Gwer-West. Call on NEMA and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide relief to affected communities. Advise the federal government to collaborate with the Benue State Government in enforcing the Open Grazing Prohibition Law. Mandate the Senate Committee on Agriculture to visit Gwer-West for an on-the-ground assessment and to expedite action on the Open Grazing Prohibition Bill. Related Posts 8 Ways to Encourage Daily Walking Moving your body is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health, but you Read more Effects of absent father on marriage. We cannot disregard the fact that the absence of a father, whether due to death, physical absence, or emotional unavailability, Read more Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Former Senator Defends Kingibe’s Silence in Akpabio Harassment Case

Former Senator Shehu Sani has offered insight into why Senator Ireti Kingibe, one of only four female senators, may have chosen to remain silent on the matter. In a thoughtful Facebook post addressing public criticism of Kingibe’s lack of vocal support for her female colleague, Sani highlighted the complex political situation Kingibe currently faces. “Some people are attacking Senator Ireti for not standing up to fight in the Senate. She is already being fought at home by the FCT Minister,” Sani explained. “If she now picks another battle in the Senate, she will be at war both front and back. What will be left of her in that situation?” Sani urged critics to consider Kingibe’s difficult position, noting, “You have to put yourself in her shoes to understand her predicament. There are moments you have to choose the battles to fight and the ones to defer.” The former senator further elaborated on the practical political considerations at play, suggesting that while taking a stand might earn Kingibe popularity on social media, it could alienate her constituents. “If Ireti fights on both sides, she will be loved by social media but her constituents will revolt against her that ‘We didn’t send you to fight, we send you to bring something to us and help us,’” Sani wrote, concluding with the observation that “Politics is intriguing.” The comments come amid growing criticism from some Nigerians who have expressed disappointment in Senator Kingibe for not publicly defending Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan as the Senate investigates her allegations against Akpabio. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more 2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag of Milestones, Setbacks, and Electoral Integrity Challenges The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Nigeria as it celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. The electoral Read more ‍Kano State Opposes Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Calls for Focus on Poverty and Insecurity ‍The Kano State government has rejected the proposed tax reform bills by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “ill-timed, Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

First Lady Tinubu Urges Dignity in Senate Amid Harassment Allegations

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has weighed in on the ongoing controversy between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, expressing confidence in the Senate’s handling of the sexual harassment allegations while calling for the upper chamber to maintain its dignity. The dispute erupted on February 20 following a disagreement over seating arrangements that escalated into a heated exchange. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan later claimed her troubles stemmed from rejecting Akpabio’s advances and filed a formal sexual harassment complaint, which the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges subsequently dismissed, citing procedural limitations. Speaking at an event ahead of International Women’s Day, Mrs. Tinubu addressed the situation without taking sides. “I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may ask why I’m not taking a position. I believe the Senate is doing what is needful because that’s what it is,” she stated. The First Lady emphasized that such controversies risk undermining the Senate’s reputation. “We shouldn’t be hearing things like this. It’s a mature chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honor for you to be in that place alone,” she remarked. Drawing from her twelve years of experience as a senator, Mrs. Tinubu offered advice to women in positions of authority: “Women, raise yourself. Don’t be in a position where men will talk to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.” Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Citigroup expects more foreign investment in Nigeria and others despite FX turmoil. Citigroup Inc. has stated that Nigeria, Angola, and Kenya are among the African nations that are anticipated to attract more Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Nigerian Senate Suspends Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Six Months Over Misconduct Allegations

The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The decision, reached on Thursday, came after the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions reviewed the case and found her guilty of multiple violations of Senate rules. Presenting the committee’s findings, Chairman Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards explained that Akpoti-Uduaghan was given opportunities to defend her claims during the investigation. However, the committee cited several issues leading to her suspension: She allegedly disrupted proceedings by refusing to sit in her designated seat. She engaged in a heated verbal exchange during a Senate session. Senator Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu, who filed a petition against her, testified regarding her conduct. Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho emphasized the need to uphold Senate rules, stating that no lawmaker should be above the law. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno reinforced this, saying that rules exist in every civilized society, unlike in the “animal kingdom.” Despite an appeal from Minority Leader Abba Moro to reduce the suspension to three months, the Senate upheld the six-month penalty through a voice vote, with Senate President Akpabio presiding. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more Nigerian Equities Market Defies Economic Challenges, Posts Record N21.8 Trillion Gain in 2024 ‏The Nigerian equities market demonstrated exceptional resilience in 2024, achieving a remarkable gain of N21.845 trillion despite economic headwinds such Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Senator Nwaebonyi Dismisses Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Akpabio

Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, has denied the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Natasha recently accused Akpabio of repeatedly making unwanted advances toward her, suggesting that his alleged hostility toward her stemmed from her refusal to entertain them. She claimed these incidents occurred both in Nigeria and abroad. However, speaking on Arise TV, Senator Nwaebonyi refuted the claims, calling them false. He stated that he was present at the event in question—a birthday party held on December 8, 2023—and witnessed no such misconduct. “As God would have it, I am an eyewitness, and I have already narrated what truly happened on social media,” Nwaebonyi said. “There was never a time the Senate President asked Senator Natasha, ‘Do you like my house? We will come back to have a good time.’ That never happened, and Senator Natasha knows that very well.” Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more Nigerian Equities Market Defies Economic Challenges, Posts Record N21.8 Trillion Gain in 2024 ‏The Nigerian equities market demonstrated exceptional resilience in 2024, achieving a remarkable gain of N21.845 trillion despite economic headwinds such Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Senate Spokesperson: No Sexual Harassment Case Against Akpabio Before Senate

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the spokesperson for the Senate, has stated that the allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio are not before the Senate. Speaking on Arise TV’s ‘Morning Show’ on Monday, Adaramodu dismissed the claims, emphasizing that the Senate does not debate issues that have not been formally presented. He clarified that: No formal complaint has been submitted regarding the allegations. The Senate will not investigate social media controversies. The Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee is only handling a case related to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s alleged non-compliance with Senate standing orders. Adaramodu stated, “The issue of bringing it up in the Senate committee is like asking a court to pick a case from the motor park or the police when nobody has made any complaint to the court.” He reaffirmed that the only matter before the Senate involves procedural compliance, not any allegations against Akpabio. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more Nigerian Equities Market Defies Economic Challenges, Posts Record N21.8 Trillion Gain in 2024 ‏The Nigerian equities market demonstrated exceptional resilience in 2024, achieving a remarkable gain of N21.845 trillion despite economic headwinds such Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

Drama in Senate as Akpabio Orders Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Removal Over Seat Dispute

A tense moment unfolded in the Senate chamber as Senate President Godswill Akpabio ordered the removal of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, following a heated dispute over her seating arrangement. The incident began when Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Ali Monguno, raised a point of order, highlighting what he called an “improper seating position.” Before he could finish, Akpoti-Uduaghan interrupted, challenging the change and demanding an explanation. The confrontation quickly escalated, drawing the attention of the Senate President. Despite Akpabio’s attempts to restore order, Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to back down, insisting she had a right to know why her seat had been changed without her consent. Security personnel, including the Sergeant-at-Arms, were called in to escort her out, but she resisted. A viral video of the incident shows fellow lawmakers attempting to calm her down, but she remained defiant, standing her ground on the issue. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.

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